Ilka

We did 4 days in Aguila de Osa last June. We're well traveled, and lived in Costa Rica for about 30 years so tend to have a 'been there, done that' attitude (I know it is a terrible habit!). I was worried it was just going to be 'another jungle' but we absolutely loved it! The nature is gorgeous, the fishing was great, the food was excellent, the service wonderful. I would highly recommend it: http://www.aguiladeosainn.com

Pat_Hewitt

What a fun exercise this is. We don't know exactly what you like, so all of us "experts" get to just talk about what we like best in Costa Rica. I am having fun reading the responses.

So I will throw in my two cents too. If you are seeking a great beach with some good nature (lots of monkeys!), you can't beat Manuel Antonio. Also, crowds won't be an issue at this time of year. It should be almost sleepy. Easier to get to than the other locations discussed too.

Everyone here knows of my love for Monteverde, and I see that not much mention is made of it in this thread. Is hiking in a beautiful cloudforest, with a cool temperature your cup of tea? Then you need to check into this location. It offers a lot of very accessible nature.

I would hold off on the Osa for this trip. I love it there, but I see two issues. During "green" season, there are only morning flights. So you would have to spend the night before in the San Jose area. You are already forced to do this because of your early departure back to the States. So that only gives you two nights max.

Plus, this is a rainy time. The Osa gets more rain than any part of the country, or at least as much. Some of the lodges actually close during September and October. I would visit during a drier time.

Hope this helps! Let me know if I can offer more advice.

Warm Regards,
Pat Hewitt
(Travel professional)

hipvirgochick

Ok Pat, in part that's true. I do love PV. However, I did have the OP's time of travel in mind...thinking better weather chances that time of year in PV than in MA. Never predictable as we all know though!

tcreath

Okay, so I did some research last night and Puerto Viego does indeed look lovely. Now I am completely torn! I think here are my options as I see it:

Arrive in San Jose, pick up car and drive towards La Fortuna/Arenal. 3 nights
Drive to La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Stay at Peace Lodge. 1 night
Drive to airport and fly home

-OR-

Arrive in San Jose, pick up car and drive towards Puerto Viejo. 3 nights
Drive to La Paz Waterfall Gardens (?). Stay at Peace Lodge. 1 night. Drive to airport and fly home

I chose the Peace Lodge for our final night because its close enough to the airport without and we want to see the waterfalls.

Now I just need to decide which one to do! I really want to see some lush scenery, monkeys and other wildlife that can't around my neck of the woods (Charlotte, NC). The food and culture, not to mention the coastline, around Puerto Viejo intrigues me. On the other hand, the volcano and forest around Arenal also looks wonderful. What to do. oh, if only all lifes decisions were this difficult....

Tracy

volcanogirl

Tracy, if you go with the Arenal option, try to include the Cano Negro Tour and the Hanging Bridges; I think they would give you the scenery and wildlife that you're looking for.

nina

I haven't been everywhere in CR (only Arenal, Central Valley and MA), but I would go to MA.

It's not nearly as touristy as I was expecting, and the National Park beaches are GORGEOUS.

But it is touristy enough to have lots of good restaurants and activities, so you can try ziplining, etc. and let's not forget all the monkey sitings!

Plus if you stay in a nice, exclusive resort you'll barely see other people. We loved the Mot-Mot villa at Tulemar.